Abigail Whorley, incoming Director of Middle School at HRA
Hampton Roads Academy is excited to announce that Abigail Whorley has been appointed as Director of Middle School beginning July 1, 2026. With more than a decade of teaching, administration, and educational consulting experience in independent schools, Whorley is a proven leader with an outstanding record of curricular innovation.
Holding a BA in government from William & Mary and an MBA from the University of Richmond’s Robins School of Business, Whorley comes to HRA from St. Catherine’s School in Richmond, an all-girls institution at the forefront of independent education since 1890, where she currently serves as Middle School Dean of Students and chair of the Religion Department.
In this dual role, she has demonstrated exceptional skill in guiding division-wide programming, supporting faculty professional development, establishing open lines of communication with families, and promoting success in the classroom through student-centered teaching and academic advising. She also oversees St. Catherine’s Middle School Honor and Conduct System with an emphasis on equity and personal growth, principles that resonate with HRA’s own values and dedication to cultivating ethical leaders.
“I am grateful to Head of School Jay Lasley, the search committee, and the Board for the opportunity to join Hampton Roads Academy as Director of Middle School,” Whorley said. “What excites me most about HRA is the warmth of the Navigator community and its deep commitment to supporting students during these important years. My approach to middle school leadership is grounded in strong relationships and high expectations, with a focus on helping students grow in confidence, curiosity, and responsibility. I look forward to partnering with faculty and families to ensure that every student feels known, supported, and challenged to do their best work.”
With her commitment to collaboration, fostering a culture of respect and belonging, and shaping students into resilient and self-assured lifelong learners, Whorley is an ideal steward for the Middle School’s mission of building Navigators’ independence and equipping them to excel in Upper School and beyond.
“I am thrilled to welcome Abigail Whorley to HRA,” Lasley said. “I am confident that her vision, her depth of experience, and her investment in meeting the needs of every student will make our community stronger and make the Academy an even more exceptional place to learn. With her at the helm of the crucial middle chapter of the Navigator journey, our students will have a bright future ahead of them.”
As Whorley prepares to assume her new role, HRA extends its profound thanks to Interim Director of Middle School Karen Gillespie, as well as Lisa Thatcher, who served as Middle School director before taking on her current position as Director of the Student Support Center in fall 2025. Both have done an exceptional job, setting a high standard for leadership in the Middle School. HRA is confident that Whorley will continue this tradition of excellence and have a transformative impact on the school.
